If you’ve decided to give up alcohol, then one of the first steps you’ll take is going through the detox process. It’s a difficult and challenging process and one that often requires professional help, but get through the other side of it and you’re on the pathway to recovery.
It’s important to recognise that help from a professional at an alcohol rehab UK based can be a good option, guiding you through the process and important providing help with any withdrawal symptoms you have, some of which can be incredibly severe and even life threatening.
Being supervised can be absolutely crucial during detox, and knowing what you could expect from withdrawal symptoms can also make you better prepared should you go through them. So, what exactly might you face?
Mild Symptoms: Anxiety and Irritability
For those who have been drinking heavily or regularly, one of the earliest withdrawal symptoms is increased anxiety. Alcohol is a depressant that can temporarily calm the central nervous system, so when it’s removed, your body may react with heightened levels of anxiety, restlessness, or agitation. This anxious feeling can range from mild to moderate, depending on the individual and their level of alcohol dependence.
Alongside anxiety, many people experience irritability or mood swings. As your body adjusts to life without alcohol, it’s common to feel emotionally unstable in the early stages of withdrawal. You might feel more sensitive to stress, or find yourself becoming frustrated more easily than usual. It’s important to recognise that these mood changes are part of the withdrawal process and should gradually improve over time.
Tremors and Shakes
A very common symptom of alcohol withdrawal is experiencing tremors, often referred to as the “shakes.” These are involuntary movements or trembling, usually affecting the hands but sometimes extending to other parts of the body. The shakes typically begin within a few hours to a day after your last drink and can be accompanied by sweating, rapid heartbeat, or a sense of panic.
For some people, these tremors can be mild, but in more severe cases, they can make it difficult to perform simple tasks like writing or holding a cup. Tremors generally subside after a few days, but in cases of significant alcohol dependence, they can persist for longer.
Sleep Disturbances and Insomnia
Many people who give up alcohol experience difficulties with sleep during the withdrawal phase. Alcohol affects the brain’s neurotransmitters, which regulate sleep cycles, so when alcohol is removed, the brain can struggle to regulate sleep on its own. This can result in insomnia, frequent waking during the night, or poor-quality sleep.
Although alcohol might make you feel drowsy, it disrupts the deeper stages of sleep, so quitting can sometimes result in improved rest over time. However, in the short term, you may experience sleepless nights or restless sleep as your body recalibrates. Sleep disturbances are usually temporary but can last for several weeks in some cases.
Headaches and Nausea
Headaches are a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal, especially in the first few days after quitting. These headaches can range from mild to severe and are often accompanied by nausea or an upset stomach. Alcohol dehydrates the body, and the sudden cessation of drinking can trigger these physical symptoms as the body tries to readjust.
Nausea and vomiting are also common, particularly in the early stages of withdrawal. These symptoms can make the process uncomfortable, but staying hydrated and eating light, healthy meals can help alleviate some of the discomfort.
Severe Symptoms: Hallucinations and Seizures
For individuals who have been drinking heavily for a long period of time, there is a risk of developing more severe withdrawal symptoms. One of the more serious conditions associated with alcohol withdrawal is delirium tremens (DTs), which affects around 5% of people who go through alcohol withdrawal. DTs typically occur within 48 to 72 hours after the last drink and can involve confusion, severe agitation, and vivid hallucinations. This condition is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate professional care.
Seizures are another serious risk for those with severe alcohol dependence. Alcohol suppresses certain brain activity, and when it is suddenly removed, the brain can become overstimulated, leading to seizures. These seizures typically occur within the first 48 hours of withdrawal and can be life-threatening. If you are a heavy drinker, it is critical to seek medical advice before attempting to quit alcohol on your own to minimise the risk of serious complications.
Fatigue and Low Energy
During alcohol withdrawal, many people experience fatigue or extreme tiredness. This is partly because your body is working hard to detoxify and repair the damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption. The tiredness can also be due to poor sleep or the emotional toll that comes with withdrawal.
It’s important to allow yourself time to rest during this phase. As your body adjusts, your energy levels will gradually return, and you may start to feel physically stronger and more alert than when you were drinking.
